American Beverage Association appoints new CEO and president

The American Beverage Association (ABA) has appointed Katherine Lugar as its new president and CEO, succeeding Susan Neely, who had served as the organisation’s CEO for the last 13 years.

Lugar previously served as the CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), tripling the association’s revenue and membership during her tenure.

Prior to joining the AHLA, Lugar served as the Retail Industry Leaders Association’s (RILA) executive vice president of public affairs, and also held the role of vice-president of legislative and political affairs at the National Retail Federation (NRF).

A statement from the ABA claimed that her experience in these roles would ensure that will she be able to leverage her public policy and advocacy experience to effectively represent member companies.

Lugar said: “I’m honoured to join ABA and advocate on behalf of its members, including iconic brands like The Coca-Cola Company, Keurig Dr Pepper and PepsiCo.

“As a mother, I know how important it is for consumers to have choices as they balance their families’ nutrition and activity.

“These companies have shown real leadership and set their competitive differences aside to strengthen our communities and support families nationwide.

“Building on Susan Neely’s outstanding leadership and results over the past 13 years, I look forward to leading the ABA team as we continue to be an important part of the solution when it comes to consumer choice and public health.”

Jeff Honickman, chair of ABA’s board of directors and CEO of Pepsi-Cola & National Brand Beverages added: “On behalf of the board, I am so pleased to congratulate and welcome Katherine as the new ABA president and CEO.

“Katherine is a dynamic leader who brings deep knowledge and experience in public policy and issue advocacy.

“I know ABA and its member companies will benefit from Katherine’s management, and she will continue to build on the successful foundation that Susan and the ABA team have established on behalf of our industry and consumers.”